102 Hair Loss Statistics, Expert Insights, and Current Trends
102 Hair Loss Statistics, Expert Insights, and Current Trends
Miriam Otero
18 min
March 26, 2024
Every day, it's normal for people to shed some hair. But when lost hair isn't replaced by new growth, it leads to a condition known as alopecia, or hair loss, which can be more than just a physical issue. It can deeply affect one's self-esteem and self-perception.
Recognising the profound impact of hair and skin health on overall well-being, we are on a mission to become the global market leader in hair and skin treatments.
We aim to transform lives for the better and elevate self-confidence through best-in-class treatments for those experiencing hair loss or seeking healthier skin.
We also realise that education in these matters is crucial. That’s why we’re shedding light on the most important hair loss statistics and breaking down what this means.
Top 10 Hair Loss Statistics
It’s normal to shed between 50 and 100 hairs a day. [Source: 1]
Androgenic alopecia (AGA) is a condition where hair follicles get smaller, leading to the most frequent form of ongoing hair loss.
It impacts 30-50% of men and around 30% of middle-aged women. [Source: 4]
Stress is a leading cause of issues with hair growth and hair loss. [Source: 4]
Women face a higher risk of hair loss than men, influenced by the hormonal shifts that occur with life stages such as puberty, pregnancy, menopause, and even the use of birth control pills. [Source: 9]
Hair loss in children is not rare, but it shows patterns that differ from those observed in adults. [Source: 11]
Children's hair loss accounts for about 3% of pediatric office visits in America. [Source: 15]
It's estimated that 12.94 million Americans will use hair regrowth products in 2024. [Source: 12]
By age 35, two out of three American men will start losing their hair. [Source: 13]
By age 50, around 85% of men have noticeably thinner hair. [Source: 13]
40% of Americans experiencing hair loss are women. [Source: 14]
Hair loss isn't just about losing hair; it's a widespread issue touching nearly half of men and a significant number of women, pointing to genetics and the undeniable stress of modern life.
Surprisingly, it's not an adults-only problem, with kids making up 3% of related doctor visits in the U.S. What's fascinating is how hormonal changes uniquely challenge women, making them equally vulnerable.
As we head towards 2025, the spike in people turning to hair regrowth products is more than a trend; it's a call to action for better solutions.
Clearly, hair loss is more than a personal battle; it's a societal signal that we're all seeking to regain not just strands of hair, but confidence and normalcy in our lives.
Female Pattern Hair Loss Statistics
Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL) is a common condition affecting millions of women, characterized by thinning hair and hair loss primarily on the scalp.
According to our team of medical experts, FPHL impacts different scalp areas compared to Male Pattern Baldness. In women, it typically leads to uniform hair thinning, most noticeably on the top of the head.
FPHL is actually the most common cause of hair loss in women. [Source: 2]
Among 200 postmenopausal women aged 50 to 65, the prevalence of FPHL was found to be 52.2%. Factors such as age, time since menopause, and body mass index were significantly associated with FPHL. [Source: 3]
In the U.K, 6% of women under 30 years old experience FPHL. [Source: 16]
A prevalence study within a student population revealed that 28.6% of junior high school girls experience FPHL, with significantly higher rates in rural areas compared to urban ones. [Source: 17]
While FPHL affects women of all races, it has been reported to be more prevalent in Caucasian women than in Chinese and Korean women. [Source: 17]
In a study, 38% of women experiencing hair loss were found to have low biotin levels. [Source: 5]
Vegans and vegetarians face a greater risk of ID since their dietary iron needs are estimated to be 1.8 times higher than those who eat meat. [Source: 23]
Medications or therapies that change a woman's hormones, including contraceptives, can cause hair loss in those who use them. [Source: 14]
Between 6% and 38% of healthy women experience hair loss at the front or sides of their heads. [Source: 16]
Many women experiencing female pattern hair loss also suffer from acne, which can be attributed to hormonal imbalances. [Source: 26]
Among women dealing with alopecia, 40% experience challenges in their marriages, while 63% encounter obstacles in their professional lives. [Source: 28]
Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA), leading to hair loss at the scalp's center or crown, is the predominant form of hair loss in women with darker skin. [Source: 26]
Nearly 15% of Black women are estimated to be affected by CCCA. [Source: 26]
Experiencing periods of rapid hair loss lasting 3–6 months, followed by phases of stability ranging from 6–18 months, is fairly common for women with FPHL. [Source: 22]
Hair transplant procedures for FPHL are gaining popularity. [Source: 22]
At HAIR & SKIN, our long hair transplant procedure is favored by female patients. In this method, the hair in the targeted area remains uncut.
Only a strip at the back of the head, used as the donor area, gets shaved. The extent of this shaved section depends on the number of grafts required.
Male Hair Loss Statistics
Male hair loss, primarily driven by genetics and hormonal changes, manifests as a common yet complex condition, deeply rooted in the biological makeup of men.
The statistics surrounding male hair loss not only shed light on its widespread prevalence but also offer fascinating insights into its patterns, treatment effectiveness, and psychological impact.
This prevalence is notably higher in men due to the influence of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of testosterone, which plays a significant role in shrinking hair follicles and shortening the hair growth cycle.
Understanding these statistics is crucial for advancing treatments, raising awareness, and addressing the societal and emotional challenges faced by those experiencing hair loss.
Starting as early as puberty, male-pattern baldness can affect up to 80% of European men at some point in their lives. [Source: 8]
63 genes are involved in the development of male pattern baldness. [Source: 27]
Drinking a lot of sugary drinks is linked to a greater chance of developing male pattern baldness in young men. [Source: 10]
About 25% of men with male pattern baldness start losing hair before age 21. [Source: 13]
Many men change their careers due to hair loss. [Source: 13]
13% of individuals in a relationship with someone facing hair loss reported a decline in their partner's confidence. [Source: 21]
26% of men grow a moustache or beard to make themselves feel better about hair loss. [Source: 21]
22% start working out more and 16% get tattoos to compensate for hair loss. [Source: 21]
72% of people now suspect that a man wearing a hat in his dating profile photo is probably bald. [Source: 21]
13% of survey respondents reported that someone they matched with on a dating app called off a date after discovering they were bald. [Source: 21]
In the U.K, just 11% of men consult a professional upon initially noticing hair loss. [Source: 21]
UK men between the ages of 25 and 34 are most inclined to seek professional advice for hair loss. [Source: 21]
17% of men use over-the-counter treatments for hair loss, such as daily applications of minoxidil. [Source: 21]
Expert Insight from HAIR & SKIN Specialists:
While treatments like Minoxidil can aid in hair restoration, they often offer temporary solutions and may cause side effects, including skin irritation or redness.
On the other hand, autologous blood treatments present a more enduring solution, proven to encourage hair regrowth and enhance hair quality.
Freed from the need to choose hairstyles that hide thinning areas, you can confidently style your hair in ways that truly reflect your personality and accentuate your features, thanks to this advanced approach.
Men between 45 and 54 years are significantly more inclined to choose shaving their heads as an initial response according to a UK survey. [Source: 21]
Males aged 16 to 24 are the most likely to proceed with a hair transplant surgery. [Source: 21]
In hair transplant procedures, more than 90% of the surgical grafts successfully survive. [Source: 27]
Men who have undergone a recent hair transplant report almost double the personal satisfaction. [Source: 27]
In a study, men experienced a 1.56 times boost in their self-esteem after undergoing hair transplants. [Source: 27]
Contributing Factors to Hair Loss Statistics
Let’s look at the key reasons behind hair loss, using statistics to show how common it is and what causes it. Beyond genetics, we'll see how things like health, stress, and lifestyle affect hair health.
In early hair loss, more than the usual 100 hairs a day are shed because the normal hair growth cycle is disrupted. [Source: 30]
Hair loss is a commonly recognized side effect of undergoing chemotherapy. [Source: 24]
Hair loss can also result from the tension on roots caused by tight hairstyles, like ponytails and braids. [Source: 18]
Hair loss caused by zinc deficiency can be reversed. A case series showed that hair loss was reversed in five patients with Telogen Effluvium (TE)—a temporary hair shedding condition—and zinc deficiency after they received oral zinc supplements. [Source: 23]
In a study done to see the relationship between smoking and hair loss, the following results were observed: [Source: 28]
85% of smokers (425 out of 500) exhibit hair loss, compared to 40% of non-smokers (200 out of 500). [Source: 28]
Hair loss severity among smokers: 47% have grade 3, and 24% have grade 4. [Source: 28]
For non-smokers: 20% show grade 2 hair loss, while 50% experience grades 3 or 4. [Source: 28]
Earlier onset of hair graying is more common among smokers. [Source: 28]
Smokers face a higher risk of complications during hair transplant surgery. [Source: 28]
Decreased hair oil production starts between ages 45 to 50 in smokers. [Source: 28]
Androgenetic alopecia, a hereditary condition triggered by the male sex hormone dihydrotestosterone, is the most widespread type of patterned hair loss globally, beginning after puberty. [Source: 29]
TE is reported more frequently in women. [Source: 30]
A study on postmenopausal women with female pattern alopecia showed a correlation between the extent of hair loss and body mass index, indicating a possible connection to metabolic syndrome. [Source: 30]
Alopecia areata is when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to bald patches of various sizes. [Source: 31]
Tinea capitis, or scalp ringworm, is a fungal infection impacting the scalp and hair shaft. Without early treatment, the affected area can grow and become filled with pus. [Source: 31]
Given the wide range of potential causes of hair loss, it's advisable to consult a medical professional if you observe any changes in your hair.
They will likely consider your health history, including recent illnesses, surgeries, life stressors, and family history, along with a physical examination to determine the cause.
At HAIR & SKIN, we offer a complimentary consultation at any of our 17 convenient locations.
During this consultation, you'll receive a hair analysis that helps identify the reasons behind your hair loss and suggests suitable treatment options. The image below features a client undergoing an autologous blood treatment with us.
Hair Loss Statistics By Region
Regional factors such as climate, diet, and genetic predispositions influence hair loss, leading to varying rates across the globe. Here’s a quick look at statistics from different regions to help you understand global hair loss better.
United States of America
35 million men and 21 million women are facing issues related to hair loss. [Source: 28]
Hair loss is almost non-existent among Native Americans. [Source: 28]
Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA) is a common type of hair loss in the African American community, often related to the use of chemical relaxers, hot combs, and tight hairstyles, though its exact cause is still unknown. [Source: 30]
The projected number of U.S citizens using hair regrowth products is expected to rise to 12.94 million by 2024. [Source: 12]
In a 2022 study done on a sample (100) U.S citizens, it was found that:
Women with minimal hair loss were willing to spend up to $4000, while those with extensive hair loss would spend more, around $5000. [Source: 32]
Females were open to spending more on their hair transplants than males. [Source: 32]
People in the United States view hair loss as detrimental to their attractiveness and see hair transplants as a worthwhile treatment option. [Source: 32]
From 2019 to 2029, the market for hair loss treatment products in North America is forecasted to experience a yearly growth rate of 4.35%. [Source: 33]
The United Kingdom
In the U.K, hair loss affects 8 million women and 6.5 million men. [Source: 28]
A survey of 1,503 U.K citizens explored how hair loss affects their personal lives and the measures, if any, they take to address it. Here are the findings: [Source: 21]
Individuals between the ages of 25 and 34 are the most inclined to completely conceal their hair loss on dating apps. [Source: 21]
Only 5% of the men surveyed reported feeling happy when they first noticed their hair loss. [Source: 21]
Those aged 55 and over are most likely to believe that there is no negative stigma associated with hair loss. [Source: 21]
Younger generations are more willing to explore prescription hair loss treatments, with 21% of 16-24 year-olds and 20% of 25-34 year-olds trying them. [Source: 21]
Europe
In the Czech Republic, 42.79% of men undergo baldness. [Source: 34]
Urban residents in Europe are using hair care products more each year, with a growth rate accelerating to 30%. [Source: 34]
8 of the top ten countries facing the most severe hair loss problems are in Europe. [Source: 34]
The market for alopecia treatment in Europe is expected to expand at a CAGR of 6.70% from 2023 to 2030. [Source: 34]
The market size for hair loss treatment products in Europe is projected to reach USD 186.49 million by 2024. [Source: 35]
A survey involving 346 people from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland focused on hair loss revealed the following findings: [Source: 36]
The highest monthly expenses were for hair replacement products and cosmetics, with physician visits, hospital treatments, and medication costs following.[Source: 36]
The study revealed that individuals affected by alopecia areata spend an average of 1,248€ annually on related necessities. [Source: 36]
73.7% of respondents were not pursuing treatment, citing reasons such as ineffectiveness, side effects, costs, and coming to terms with the condition. [Source: 36]
Hair loss treatments often come with significant costs. We aim to ease this burden with our interest-free payment plans, helping patients access the treatments they need for a better life.
In South Korea, 71.8% of male consumers show signs of hair loss, with approximately 39.8% acknowledging the use of hair loss shampoo. [Source: 28]
Hair loss is prevalent among men in India, with about 63.2% of those aged 21 to 61 experiencing this condition. [Source: 28]
In China, approximately 250 million individuals are dealing with hair loss, and 60% of Chinese men have reported issues related to hair health. [Source: 28]
A study in China with over 1,000 participants found a connection between the severity of Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA) and drinking sugary beverages. [Source: 30]
African descent men typically have the lowest hair density, with Hispanics next, followed by Caucasians. [Source: 28]
In countries like India and China, traditional, natural, and herbal products are commonly used to treat hair loss. [Source: 34]
Asian hair is generally less susceptible to genetic thinning compared to Western hair types. [Source: 34]
Hair Loss Treatment Statistics
You’ve likely heard of many hair loss treatments. From medications to surgeries, these numbers reveal the effectiveness and hope these treatments bring to those affected, highlighting the need for ongoing research and accessible solutions.
Hair Transplant Statistics
By 2027, the Hair Transplant Market is forecasted to reach a value of USD 8,777.56 million. [Source: 20]
Hair transplant prices differ greatly across countries; Canada presents the highest average expense at $17,500 USD, whereas Turkey provides the most affordable option with an average cost of $2,676 USD. [Source: 28]
In a study conducted in America, it was observed that female participants were inclined to spend more on their hair transplants than male participants. [Source: 32]
96.4% of ISHRS hair surgeons reported that up to 25% of their repair cases stemmed from previous black market hair transplants. [Source: 37]
66.2% of worldwide hair transplant surgeries employ the FUE method, 31.5% utilize FUT, and 2.35% combine both techniques. [Source: 37]
Over The Counter Treatments
Standardized para rubber seed oil is shown to be a safe and effective bio-oil for promoting hair growth or reducing hair loss. [Source: 4; 7]
If a medication causes hair loss, stopping the drug typically allows hair to grow back normally. [Source: 19]
Treating female pattern hair loss early with oral antiandrogens and topical minoxidil can successfully stop hair loss from getting worse and help improve mental well-being. [Source: 1]
Women are typically advised to use a 2% concentration of Minoxidil, in contrast to the 5% concentration that men often use. [Source: 25]
Improving hair loss disorders involves multiple approaches due to their complex causes. [Source: 30]
While over-the-counter medications for hair loss offer convenience, professional treatments present a more targeted and effective approach.
The expertise of healthcare professionals in diagnosing the underlying causes of hair loss and tailoring treatments accordingly can lead to superior outcomes.
Dr. Hans-Georg Dauer from our team highlights that autologous blood treatment is not just effective for hair loss; it's also valued in dermatology.
It excellently masks wrinkles, under-eye dark circles, and acne scars. For noticeable surgical scars, this gentle approach delivers remarkable outcomes.
In the journey to overcoming hair loss, exploring professional treatments opens the door to not just restored hair, but renewed confidence and quality of life.
Frequently asked questions
What percentage of people lose hair?
Hair loss affects 30-50% of men and approximately 30% of middle-aged women. [4]
What is the cause of thinning hair?
Thinning hair can be caused by a variety of factors including genetics, age, hormonal changes, stress, nutritional deficiencies, and certain medical conditions.
At what age does baldness starts?
Baldness, particularly male pattern baldness, can start at any age after puberty. It's most common in men in their late 20s and early 30s. By the age of 50, approximately 50% of men experience some degree of noticeable hair loss. [13]
Will I go bald if my dad is?
If your dad is bald, you may have a higher risk of going bald due to the genetic component of hair loss, particularly male pattern baldness.
However, genetics is complex, and inheriting baldness isn't guaranteed. Factors from both your mother's and father's sides contribute to your genetic makeup.
Can hair loss reversed?
Hair loss can sometimes be reversed, depending on the cause. For genetic hair loss (male or female pattern baldness), treatments like hair transplants could be beneficial.
For hair loss due to stress, nutritional deficiencies, or certain conditions, addressing the underlying cause can lead to reversal.
Always consult a healthcare provider for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific situation.
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